'Thudakkam' first-half review: Vismaya aces her role in this intriguing Jude Anthany film

Ever since her surprise entry into Mollywood, Vismaya Mohanlal has generated enough buzz to make audiences eagerly anticipate her big-screen debut. In just over a week, curiosity surrounding 'Thudakkam' has continued to grow, and the film offers a promising introduction to her acting career.

While the title 'Thudakkam' literally translates to 'beginning', Vismaya never comes across as someone finding her feet. From her very first scene, she carries herself with a confidence and ease that belies the fact that this is her debut. There is a natural screen presence about her, and she slips comfortably into the narrative without looking overwhelmed by the occasion.

Director Jude Anthany Joseph once again proves that he is good at his craft. Having delivered memorable films like 'Om Shanti Oshana' and '2018', Jude crafts a film that is layered and engaging despite having a relatively simple central premise.

Among the newcomers, Ashish Antony, son of producer Antony Perumbaavoor, is a genuine revelation. His character is intriguing from the outset, carrying a streak of villainy that immediately captures attention. He leaves a strong impression and adds another compelling layer to the narrative.

The first half, in particular, keeps viewers invested. Jude cleverly blends nostalgia with suspense, using a beautifully placed song to evoke emotion while simultaneously planting enough questions to make the audience eager to discover what lies ahead. The pacing remains steady, ensuring that the film rarely loses momentum.

Visually, too, 'Thudakkam' impresses. The cinematography complements the mood of the story, with well-composed frames and striking visuals that enhance the overall viewing experience. Combined with a gripping screenplay the film succeeds in holding the audience's attention in the first half. Stay tuned for the full review.